The pencil bush (Euphorbia tirucalli) sounds harmless with its name due to the visual appearance of the plant, but you should exercise a certain amount of caution when handling this plant. After all, similar to other euphorbias, the caustic, milky-white sap of the pencil shrub immediately escapes if the plant is injured.
The beautiful pencil bush is unfortunately poisonous
False Security?
Since Euphorbia tirucalli only needs to be watered about once a week as a succulent shrub, it has become quite popular as an easy-care and exotic houseplant. However, this should not hide the fact that the plant (like many other indoor and garden plants) can be fatal to inexperienced children and pets.
Do not come into contact with the plant sap
If Euphorbia tirucalli stands undisturbed in a suitable location in the plant pot by the window, the attractive shrub with the decoratively thickened branches does not have an immediate harmful effect. However, to ensure that the plant sap does not cause dangerous skin irritation and symptoms of poisoning, you should observe the following safety instructions:
- Never leave children or pets unattended in a room with a Euphorbia tirucalli
- wear protective gloves when cutting
- If you come into contact with the milky juice, wash it off immediately with plenty of clear water
tips
Wearing rubber gloves is particularly important when propagating the pencil bush, as the toxic milky sap is released immediately when the cuttings are cut.